Alexander Hamilton

Book description

In this monumental biography of Alexander Hamilton, Chernow recounts the public and private life of a brilliant, yet troubled, founding father, from the early tragedies of his childhood through the astounding, life-ending duel with Aaron Burr in 1804. Chernow tells how Hamilton, who came from the Caribbean to the colonies alone and virtually penniless, rose up to become successful in business and, later, was a trusted aide to General Washington. Chernow relates the private side of this loving if not totally loyal husband, who had a mistress known to all, and who feuded publicly with Thomas Jefferson over the form of government that was best for the new nation. Hamilton founded the Bank of New York as well as the New York Post newspaper. But he is perhaps remembered most for being the genius who wrote some of the best articles in the FEDERALIST PAPERS. In ALEXANDER HAMILTON, Chernow confirms why Hamilton is remembered as a great man, and why his face appears on the ten dollar bill. Selected by the New York Times as one of the Ten Best Books 2004.